Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed optimism that the 2023 edition of the Badagry Door of Return festival, scheduled to take place from the 19th to 21st October, has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s largest tourism events.
Speaking at a joint press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Lagos, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the historical and cultural significance of the Door of Return.
She stated that this event symbolizes the joy of returning to the motherland and aims to welcome back brothers and sisters who were taken away as slaves over 400 years ago, reconnecting them historically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
The festival will feature visits to historical sites, theatrical performances, and various activities spanning from October 19th to October 20th, 2023, with the Door officially opening on October 21st, 2023.
Notably, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is set to lead the historic door opening ceremony for the Diaspora Returnees, accompanied by Dr. Julius Marcus Garvey, Jr.
Toke Benson, the Commissioner for Tourism, Art, and Culture, affirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to the success of the Badagry Door of Return Festival.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Solomon Bonu (House Committee Chairman on Tourism), Idris Aregbe (Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture), Dr. Tunde Meseweku (Chairman, Nigeria Tourism Practitioners Association), and Jermaine Sanwo-Olu (SSA Diaspora Affairs, Lagos State).
It’s worth noting that the first edition of the Badagry Door of Return, supported by the Lagos State Government, was the first of its kind in Africa but had to be suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2023 edition promises to not only celebrate cultural heritage but also boost tourism in Nigeria, offering a unique opportunity for people to connect with their roots and explore the rich history of Badagry.
